King Charles III has given his first Christmas address to the nation following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

In his speech, he paid tribute to the late Queen as he thanked the public for their messages of kindness and sympathy after her passing.

The festive message was recorded on December 13 at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, a religious building which has a strong association with the late Queen.

He said in his speech: “And at this time of great anxiety and hardship, be it for those around the world facing conflict, famine or natural disaster, or for those at home finding ways to pay their bills and keep their families fed and warm, we see it in the humanity of people throughout our nations and the Commonwealth who so readily respond to the plight of others.

“I particularly want to pay tribute to all those wonderfully kind people who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all, their time, to support those around them in greatest need, together with the many charitable organizations which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances.”

Watch King Charles III’s Christmas Speech

The monarch’s committal service was held at the place of worship and she was laid to rest in the George VI Memorial Chapel, within St George’s, with her husband the Duke of Edinburgh.

Charles spoke about his “beloved mother”, who reigned for 70 years, in his first broadcast as King screened the day after her death on September 8.

In that address he said: “We owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example.”